2019 trek verve 2

Trek Verve 2 Review - Is It Better Than The Verve 1 & Verve 3?

Trek is a well-known brand in the cycling world. It sometimes feels like they're everywhere...but are their bikes any good?

The Verve 2 a hybrid bike with a difference. It's comfortable, easy to handle , making it a great choice for a commuter. As far as bikes go, it's affordable and designed not to break the bank.

However, the Verve 2 isn't the only bike in the range and there are plenty of hybrid bikes on the search market so how does it compare?

Let's jump into the Trek Verve 2 review and see what we think!

Table of Contents

What Is The Trek Verve 2 Disc ?

The Ver ve 2 is a hybrid bike. For those looking for a comfortable bike, that is ideal for commutes and weekend rides, this bike is aimed at you!

It comes equipped with a lot of genuinely useful feature s that enhance your ride, such as, a suspension fork, fenders, lights, adjustable handlebars and you even get a rear rack. Not to mention the alpha gold aluminum frame , more on this later!

Why I Love The Verve 2

• Trek has gone the extra mile when designing the Verve. It's all about you enjoying the cycling trips, suspension seatpost, adjustable stem, and a suspension fork.
• You don't need to add anything to it before you use the Verve 2. Trek has included everything you need; lights, a lock, a rear rack, and even mudguards. Not something you can say about many bike manufactures!
• I loved the upright riding position of the Trek Verve. Holding the handlebars, I felt like I could see everything. Sit up and enjoy the world. The alpha gold aluminum frame is outstanding.
• Disc brakes! Whether your preference is v brakes, I don't think you can deny that it's pretty impressive to see disc brakes on a bike at this price range. You going to have fantastic stopping power at times, whatever the weather condition when you're cycling.
• Bontrager H5 tires and Bontrager connection alloy double wheels. Quality running throughout the bike.

Features Of The Trek Verve 2

What makes the Verve 2 such a good purchase is the fact it's packed full of features.

Want to know more?

Lightweight frame - Constructed from aluminum alloy, Trek ensures the Verve stays at a cool 13.2kg (that's including all of the extras you get too!).

The alpha gold aluminum frame is exclusive to Trek and it's rust-resistant, ensuring you aren't left with lots of maintenance - which we all appreciate!

High-quality Bontrager H5 Tires - With the Verve 2 you actually get a tubeless setup with the tires.

[What is tubeless? Your guide is here! ]

Now I'm a fan of tubeless tires, I run tubeless on my road bike and so far I'm yet to have a route cut short due to a puncture.

The reason I went for tubeless in the first place was the extra comfort it provides as you can run the tire pressure at a lower level and you're unlikely to get a puncture that the tubeless can't fix itself.

I feel like I can achieve a higher speed when running a tubeless wheel. Bumps aren't as big a concern so speed can be!

So you can focus on enjoying your trips and adventures, whatever the road conditions are!

The Verve even has reflective Bontrager H5 tires, giving you an increase in visibility to other road users!

These Bontrager H5 tires are coupled with Bontrager Connection, alloy double-wall wheels. Matching brands up is something I always try to do, they're designed to fit together so it's nice that with these wheels, that's already taken care of!

Hydraulic Disc Brakes – Another impressive feature of the Verve 2 is that it comes with Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes.

Why is that good?

You have a better ability to stop at speed. Rim brakes can struggle on steep descents (exactly when you need them most!), at higher speed, and in poor weather conditions.

Whereas bikes with hydraulic disc brakes don't have those problems. Smooth sailing all the way - almost whatever the speed.

Suspension seat post - Seating positions are important, not being able to get comfortable isn't going to encourage you to go out on your bike very much - I'm speaking from experience here!

Trek has kitted this model out with a suspension seat post, meaning that it does a great job at absorbing the bumps on the road.

The seat tube angle and height can be adjusted to make sure you have plenty of options to get comfortable.

MIK Rear Rack - Hybrid bikes offer great flexibility in what you use them for however, quite often you have to buy additional materials such as a rear rack if you want to be able to hold your shopping on there for example.

The Verve 2 comes with a rear rack (and plenty of other goodies!) so you're able to attach and it go!

Suspension Fork - The Trek brand started out in the sport of cycling but they've taken to producing quality hybrid bikes like a duck to water.

Trek seems to understand what it takes to make hybrid bikes and that includes a suspension fork, giving you a comfortable ride.

Mountain bikes have a suspension fork to absorb the bumps on trails. By making one of the components on this bike a suspension fork, it has that ability too.

Size - Frame sizes offered are S, M, L, XL.

[Not sure what size is best for you? Check here . ]

They also offer a step-through model for women. The spec is the same, just the downtube is different.

Verve 2 Disc Lowstep

Full Specifications

Size: S, M, L, XL: Alpha Gold Aluminium, rack and fender mounts, DuoTrap S-compatible,

Hubs front: Shimano 3.0 watt dynamo hub

Hub rear: Shimano TX505,

Wheels Rim: Bontrager Connection, alloy double-wall, 32-hole, 20 mm width, Presta valve

Tires: Bontrager H2 Comp, reflective, wire bead, 30 tpi, 700x40c

Max tire size: 700x45c with or without fenders

Front derailleur: Shimano Tourney TY710

Rear derailleur: Shimano Altus M2000

Cassette: Shimano HG31, 11-32, 8-speed

Chain: KMC Z8

Saddle: Selle Royal Nuvola

Stem: Bontrager alloy quill, 31.8 mm clamp, adjustable rise, Blendr-compatible, 85 mm

Brake: Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc

Accessories

Light: Herrmans H-Trace ECO dynamo LED

Kickstand: Pletscher Comp Flex 18

Cargo rack: Alloy rear rack/ Racktime Light-it with Snapit interface

Weight: 13kg

Maximum limit: This bike has a maximum limit (combined mass of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 136 kg (300 lb).

That's all well and good but how does it compare to the other Verve models?

Verve 2 vs Verve 3

You may have noticed that Trek often releases models followed by a number.

What does that number mean?

In Treks' case, the higher the number, the higher spec'd the bike. This isn't the case with every manufacturer, Giant works the other way for example!

So anyway let's compare Verves!

There are a lot of similarities between the range, both offer really good quality and an alloy frame, with plenty of Shimano components. It will come down to what type of riding you do and how important certain features are, as well as budget of course!

The first change comes in the saddle and you get a slight upgrade with the Verve 3. The Verve 2 comes with a Selle Royal Nuvola, Verve 3 you get a Bontrager Boulevard.

You'll never hear me underestimating in a good cycling saddle. Though just because a seat is better on paper, doesn't mean it will be more comfortable for you so I'm not sure I'd let the seat be the deciding factor.

On both bikes, riders are able to adjust the height of the seat post in order to get the correct geometry for them.

The gears, cassette, and drivetrain are where we see the biggest variation.

The 2 comes with front derailleurs of Shimano Tourney vs Acera on the Verve 3. On the rear derailleur, it's Altus rear cogs vs Alivio .

What does this mean for performance?

Quite a bit actually!

The Verve 2 is a 3 x system so this potentially means more shifting to get to the right gear for the hills. Whereas the Verve 3 is a 2 x system so arguably more manageable.

Overall the quality of the cassette, gears, and groupset is going to be better on the Verve 3. Though for your average rider, I'm not sure how much they will notice.

Both frames are made from aluminum alloy but the 3 has a frame that is DuoTrap S compatible.

What does that mean?

The DuoTrap S is a sensor system that is built into the frame.

It will track your progress from the frame as you're riding and send your cycling statistics to a device of your choosing.

I should point out that the DuoTrap S system doesn't come as part of the package and is sold separately.

However, I can see the usefulness of the DuoTrap S setup and having your cycling statistics to hand as a rider!

Suspension Fork

The Verve 3 bikes get an upgrade in the suspension too with Forklight 3.0 with integrated 50LUX lighting.

Again, the suspensions offered on the 2 are still brilliant but the key components get upgraded with the Verve 3 and that's what makes it a slightly better bike.

There are other minor differences, Trek Verve 2 disc comes with Bontrager Satellite grips .

Both Verve 2 and Verve 3 share lots of similarities, but where it counts, there are differences. You still get the quality frame alpha gold aluminum alloy on whichever Verve you go for, as well as the suspension seatpost.

I don't think you can go wrong with either model!

Yes, the Verve 3 is better in a few places and for some cyclists, that will matter. For other riders? Save yourself some money and enjoy riding the 2!

Trek Verve 1 vs Verve 2

So what about the Verve 1 bikes, what changes when you spend less money?

Disc Brakes

With all of the Verve bikes, you get a disc braking system and that's impressive, especially for the entry model.

However, there is a big change with Verve 1 in that you get mechanical disc brakes.

[Hydraulic vs mechanical disc brake guide ]

The downside to mechanical disc brakes is that they rely on a braided steel cable setup to move the pistons.

The Verve 1 & 2 share the same rear derailleur, Shimano Altus . However, the Verve 2 is a newer model so shifting is slightly smoother on these bikes.

Will most riders notice? Unlikely.

It's the same case for the front derailluers, both run Shimano Tourney but the 2 get the newer components.

The cassette is where we see the greatest disparity with these hybrid bikes.

With the 2 you are getting a full Shimano groupset , but with the Verve 1, the cassette is SunRace.

Differences don't stop there, either. The Verve 2 is an 11-32 8 speed set-up. Whilst the 1 is a 14-34, 7 speed.

Would you notice? Yes

Does it matter? For some riders, it will matter and the lack of a Shimano groupset could be a deal-breaker - are you one of those?

That's it, those are the main differences between 1 and 2 bikes. I will admit, they're fairly big differences so are worthy of some considerations.

For me, I'd say the Verve 2 gets my vote. The better braking power and Shimano drivetrain is a worthy upgrade for the price.

Is The Trek Verve 2 A Good Bike?

If you're after a hybrid bike with fantastic braking power thanks to the hydraulic disc brakes, great reviews, and lots of features - the Verve 2 is a great choice!

I'd say if you're looking for cons, then the pedals could do with an upgrade. However, I can't remember a time when I didn't swap the pedals a new bike came with for mine so, in my mind, it's not a big issue.

It also boasts an alpha gold aluminum frame that keeps the kgs down to a very respectable and desirable 13kg!

What Is The Difference Between Trek Verve 1 And 2?

The key distinction is in the disc brakes. The Verve 2 Disc bikes come with hydraulic disc brakes. The Trek Verve 1 comes with mechanical disc brakes.

This matters because hydraulic disc brakes are easier to maintain and are more reliable when it comes to cycling.

If you like to reach great speeds on your travel then the brakes are going to be a factor - as is the gearing!..

The Verve 2 disc also benefits from a Shimano drivetrain . The Trek Verve 1 has a SunRace cassette.

What does that matter?

The material these derailleurs are constructed from will be different and it can affect the responsiveness of your shifters.

If you want to change your gearing, you do so on your shifters and ideally, the derailleurs respond immediately.

Each Verve comes with an aluminum alloy frame and for some of the price points, that's a heck of an achievement!

You also get a better range of gears with the Verve 2 Disc, making it rate more highly in the versatility stakes!

How Much Does The Trek Verve 2 Weigh?

One of the features I love about the Trek Verve 2 disc is how lightweight it is as a bike. It weighs 13.2kg.

For a hybrid bike, with hydraulic disc brakes, that's impressive.

Then when you factor in that you get a load of extras such as the puncture protection tires , which yes, do weigh more but we're talking grams and I'd say these tires are worth the extra weight.

Let's not forget the rack, fender, and lights that are all included!

So overall, it's a light-weight bicycle!

Is Trek Bike Worth The Money?

Each Trek bike will differ but as a manufacturer, Trek produces some decent bikes. The Trek Verve is an excellent example of a hybrid bike at an affordable price.

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That's it, that's my take on the Verve 2.

I rate the product highly for first-timers and confident cyclists alike, it's a good purchase.

Would I choose 1, 2, or 3 for cycling?

It depends on what my needs were but I'd most likely sit in the middle of the range with the 2. It comes with all the parts most riders need. It has a beautiful alloy frame design and comes in plenty of sizes (S, M, L, XL) so it's perfect for so many people, regardless of height!

However, the decision is yours! Which bicycle do you prefer?

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Trek Verve 2 Review: Is It Worth Buying

What is the trek verve 2 review?

The Trek Verve 2 hybrid bike is made for convenience and enjoyment on errand runs, road trips, and fitness rides. A suspension seatpost, a padded saddle, and weather-resistant disc brakes are just a few of the thoughtful features that contribute to a secure and comfortable ride.

Please continue reading so I can give you more specific information about the Trek Verve 2 review.

Table of Contents

Trek Verve 2 Review

Frame review.

According to me, the frame accounts for roughly 70% of the bike’s appearance and feel, so it should be taken into account when making a purchase decision. The Alpha Gold Aluminum frame on the Trek Verve 2 represents the pinnacle of aluminum engineering for Trek bicycles.

The frame guarantees a solid ride while still feeling very light and forgiving while riding. The first time you test-ride this bike, you’ll quickly realize how important this is.

The bike has a shorter reach than other traditional fitness bikes because the comfort of the rider is given top priority when designing the frame. This also makes sure that you are riding this thing in a more upright position, which is suitable if you have ever experienced back, neck, or shoulder problems.

You can also easily look around while changing lanes or crossing streets when you’re standing up straight.

Fork Review

This bike has a steel threaded steerer tube and a Verve alloy fork for excellent handling. The frame’s inclusion of a ThruSkew axle is yet another surprise to me. This guarantees that your front wheel won’t come off while you’re riding and makes it simple and quick to access your front wheel.

The absence of a suspension is one of the choices in this new model with which I disagree. As a front suspension is something you would anticipate on a comfort hybrid bike like this one. But as it turns out, the suspension on a bike like this doesn’t really increase comfort as much as you might think.

Since this is a hybrid, you won’t be required to perform jumps or ride on trails as frequently, and riding upright means your weight is distributed more toward the back of the bike. Additionally, in order to significantly benefit from a front suspension, you would need to ride more aggressively and shift your weight forward, which is not in the best interest of a comfort bike.

But at this price, the Trek Marlin 5 will be a great option if you’re looking for something that can be used for both regular commutes and trail runs.

Additionally, you can lighten the bike up and make it more comfortable by removing the front suspension. You won’t experience any significant shocks with this fork as long as you stay on well-paved roads and ground limestone, and it has an adjustable suspension seat post and a taller stack.

Drivetrain Review

The drivetrain of Trek Verve 2 consists of

• Shimano Altus M315 8×3 shifters
• Forged alloy 3 speed 48/38/28 crank with a Shimano Tourney TY710 front derailleur
• 8 speed 11-32 Shimano HG31 cassette with a Shimano Altus M310 read derailleur

You can see that the drivetrain on this bike is made entirely of Shimano parts. It’s advantageous because it avoids the need for additional tuning and other brand-specific compatibility problems. Shimano is regarded as the best for drivetrain components and is used and adored by the top athletes worldwide, which should give you peace of mind if you are new to cycling.

You will have a wide range of speeds to choose from for any gradient thanks to the 8×3 setup. As they allow a full stroke, easier gears are ideal for riders who have been away from bikes for a long time or for those who are attempting to recover from leg injuries.

Handlebar And Stem Review

This hybrid bike has a 620mm/660mm wide alloy handlebar from Trek’s own brand Bontrager, whose products are well-known. You’ll see a lot of Bontrager components in the following. This particular handlebar has a comfort sweep, giving it a subtle “M” shape similar to what you typically see on a comfort cruiser.

Because the stem part includes a Bontrager alloy quill, you can effectively adjust the handlebar rise into any of the 64 degrees it allows. This makes the stem part a little unique. The stem is also longer—85mm or 105mm, depending on the size you choose—which is typical for road and commuter bikes because it gives you more room to turn.

Seatpost And Saddle Review

The adjustable suspension seatpost that is included with the Trek Verve 2 is made of alloy, and it is a key component of the extra comfort that it provides when riding upright. For those road bumps and shocks, this has an adjustable range of up to 27mm.

The ride quality is flawless and is undoubtedly one of the most praised aspects of the bike, along with the Bontrager Boulevard comfort saddle. Longer rides are very comfortable because of the extensive cushioning.

Brakes Review

You are fortunate in this regard because, up until a few years ago, the Trek Verve 2 only had rim brakes. Trek made a wise decision to upgrade to hydraulic disc brakes from Tektro HD-M275, giving rise to the name Trek Verve 2 Disc. which are much better in every way and more trustworthy. Even in wet conditions, where rim brakes are dangerous to operate, they function flawlessly.

Additionally, they have the highest stopping power, which is extremely helpful when you are carrying more weight. Hydraulic disc brakes have the added benefit of being very simple to use and maintain over time, which is another advantage over mechanical ones.

Wheels Review

The front and rear hubs are both made of Formula DC 6-bolt alloy (DC-20 in the front and DC-22 in the back). For a stiffer ride and greater overall strength of the wheels, Bontrager Connection rims are double-walled and made of aluminum alloy.

The Bontrager H5 Comps, 700x45c stock tires that come with this bike are wider than those you’d find on a road bike but not as much as those on a mountain bike. On well-paved roads and gravel, which is typically the case for commuting and recreational riding, they roll fairly well.

Because of these wider tires, the lack of front suspension is concealed. Since there are no power losses when pedaling, getting rid of the suspension allows for better energy transmission on the road.

Weight Review

A size medium Trek Verve 2 weighs 30.26 lbs, or 13.73 kg, and can support a rider weight of 300 lbs, or roughly 136 kg, plus any cargo.

Sizes And Colors Review

This is a typical Trek bike and is available in 4 sizes: S, M, L, and XL. Below is a table with the Trek Verve 2 size chart and geometry.

Both the stunning colors Lithium Grey and Rage Red are available for this bike.

Customers’ Review To Trek Verve 2

Excellent bike.

In my early 20s and throughout graduate school, I was an avid rider. After that, I became preoccupied with other tasks, and my bike washed up on the side. I was anxious to start riding again because I wasn’t certain that it would be comfortable or that I would still enjoy it as much as I did in the past. I chose the Verve 2 bike after doing some research and don’t regret it. The bike is enjoyable and comfortable to ride. I wish I hadn’t waited so long and am looking forward to my time spent hiking. But the real test is: Would I buy another bike if this one broke tomorrow? Yes, right away. I am incredibly pleased with the purchase, and the Bicycle Garage’s staff in Bloomington was wonderful. fantastic overall experience

The Best Bike I Have Ever Owned Is This One.

I’ve switched between a road bike, mountain bike, hybrid bike, and now the Verve 2 Disk. I have discovered the ideal fusion of comfort and speed at the age of 66. At the end of a 26-mile ride, I can get off the bike pain-free thanks to the upright position and simple gear transition. I now want to ride again because that truly makes a difference. This bike will accompany me until dusk. PS: I got lucky that Gateway Cycle in North Saint Paul had this Verve 2 Disc in Gray in stock. I rode it for a short distance as a test drive before bringing it home.

I Adore This Bike Utterly…

I just picked up my new Verve 2 Disc this morning and went for a 6 mile ride. I love it so much! I have been riding a recumbent exercise bike ever since this whole Covid thing started, so I made the decision to get another bike and enjoy the summer. I’m a 58-year-old man who is currently trying to get back in shape. I’ve had issues with various other styles of bikes in the past, but this bike is comfortable on my knees and shoulders. Despite having a factory saddle, the bike is surprisingly comfortable, light, and agile. If you’re looking for a comfortable and casual form of exercise, stop right here! I’m hoping you’ll adore yours too!

Does Not Age Well

To go along with a Specualized Sirrus that I had bought in 2013, I bought this bike in early 2021. I rode both of them over the past year (roughly the same distances and terrain). The Verve is beginning to tremble, and the frame feels less sturdy than the Sirrus, who is nine years old. The Verve appears to have deteriorated more in a year than the Sirrus did in nine years, given the same circumstances and care. I want to trade my Verve in for a new Sirrus. Who knows though; perhaps the design of simple bikes was more advanced ten years ago….we shall see…

Is The Trek Verve 2 An Excellent Bicycle?

If you’re after a hybrid bike with fantastic braking power thanks to the hydraulic disc brakes, great reviews, and lots of features – the Verve 2 is a fantastic option!

If you’re looking for a drawback, I’d say the pedals need to be upgraded. It’s not a big deal to me, though, because I can’t recall ever using the pedals that came with a new bike instead of my own.

It also boasts an alpha gold aluminum frame that keeps the kgs down to a very respectable and desirable 13kg!

How Do Trek Verve 1 And 2 Differ From One Another?

The disc brakes make a significant distinction. The disc brakes on the Verve 2 Disc bicycles are hydraulic. The Trek Verve 1 has mechanical disc brakes.

This is significant because, when it comes to cycling, hydraulic disc brakes are more dependable and easier to maintain.

The brakes and gearing will both matter if you like to travel at high speeds…

The Verve 2 disc also benefits from a Shimano drivetrain . SunRace cassette is available for the Trek Verve 1.

Does it really matter?

Your shifters’ responsiveness may be impacted by the various materials these derailleurs are made of.

Ideally, the derailleurs will react immediately when you shift gears on your shifters.

Each Verve comes with an aluminum alloy frame, which is impressive considering some of the price points!

The Verve 2 Disc scores higher in terms of versatility because it offers a wider variety of gears!

The Trek Verve 2’s Weight Is How Much?

One of the features I love about the Trek Verve 2 disc is how lightweight it is as a bike. It weighs 13.2kg.

That is impressive for a hybrid bike with hydraulic disc brakes.

Then when you factor in that you get a load of extras such as the puncture protection tires , which yes, do weigh more but we’re talking grams and These tires, in my opinion, are worth the added weight.

Let’s not forget the rack, fender, and lights that are all included!

It is a lightweight bicycle overall.

Is A Trek Bike Value For The Money?

Despite the fact that every Trek bike is unique, the company still makes some good bikes. A high-quality, reasonably priced hybrid bike is the Trek Verve.

The post focused on trek verve 2 review.

without sacrificing any effort in order to improve riding comfort on the Trek Verve. a great balance of performance and selling price in the Trek Verve 2 Disc: a comfortable, enjoyable commuter, leisure, and fitness bike. providing a ride that is secure and comfortable with many thoughtful features. So this is a great hybrid bike to buy

I appreciate you reading.

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Bikes Insider

Trek Verve 2 Disc Review

Today we are going to take a look at Trek Verve 2 which is a budget hybrid bike. It is the second of the Verve series, Trek’s take at recreational hybrid bikes which are built for comfort and versatility. Trek Verve series has three bikes to offer,

The Trek Verve 1 which retails at $530, Verve 2 retailing at $670, and finally Verve 3 retailing at around $820.

I choose to review Trek Verve 2 Disc first, mainly because I think this is a bike many would come to love at the price point. Don’t get me wrong, Verve 1 is already a great bike for what its worth. But for just another $140 you will be getting a lot more of a bike than the base model.

This is a comprehensive rundown of all the features you would expect when getting a Trek Verve 2 and if you are looking for a specific component of the bike use the table of contents below to quickly navigate around the review.

The frame makes for around 70 percent look and feel of the bike in my opinion and should be a major consideration when you are thinking of getting a bike. Trek Verve 2 comes with an Alpha Gold Aluminum frame, which is top of the line aluminum technology for treks bikes.

The frame ensures a strong ride while still feeling very light and forgiving during the rides. This is something you will quickly come to appreciate the first time you test ride this bike.

The frame is designed for comfort as its priority, as a result the bike as a shorter reach than other traditional fitness bikes. This also ensures that are in a more upright position while riding this thing which is compatible if you have had any issues with your back, neck, or shoulders.

The upright position also makes it easy for you to look around while switching lanes or crossing streets.

Trek Verve 2 is offered in two variants,

• A standard high-step model which has the diamond frame
• A low step model which is designed for more clearance and convenience

This bike can also be a good commuter as the frame comes with mounts for racks and fenders. So if you want to stay dry during the rain or carry some extra cargo with you, this bike can handle it pretty well.

Some of the good features of this Verve 2 frame are that you get internal cable routing which keeps the cables away from your sight. This gives the bike a very clean and minimalist look but also offers extra protection to the cables when using a trunk mount or something similar.

This sounds like nitpicking but if you are going to carry your bike up the stairs by hand, your hands will appreciate if the cables are not harassing them every time you carry it by the top-tube. And aluminum won’t rust on contact with moisture so don’t worry about that.

Another good addition, which you won’t see a lot these days is the amount for one of those traditional wheel locks. Trust me when I say that this lock gives you that peace of mind when you have to quickly go into a store and don’t want to bother locking your bike.

Trek Verve 2 frame also has Integrated DuoTrap S digital sensor compatibility which you can use to wirelessly track your ride data directly from your bike to any ANT+ and Bluetooth enabled phone.

The fork on this bike is made of Verve alloy and threaded steerer tubes made of steel which gives great handling. Another thing that came as a surprise to me is that the frame comes with a ThruSkew axle. This means your front wheel will never drop out during rides and enables quick and easy access to your front wheel.

One of the choices I didn’t agree with this new model is the lack of a suspension. As a front suspension is something you’d expect on a comfort hybrid bike like this one. But turns out, the suspension on a bike like this doesn’t add that much to comfort as you’d think.

As this is a hybrid, you won’t be expected to do jumps or ride on trails, at least not as often, and riding in an upright position means your weight is more towards the back of the bike. And to get considerable benefits of a front suspension, you would need to ride more aggressively and have your weight more forward faced and this is not in the interest of a comfort bike.

But if you are looking for something to act as a double for trails and regular commute, Trek Marlin 5 will be a great choice at this price.

And by removing a front suspension, you also get some weight off the bike for a lighter and relaxed ride. And with adjustable suspension seat post and a taller stack, this fork offers you won’t feel any large shocks as long as you stick to well-paved roads and ground limestone.

The drivetrain of Trek Verve 2 consists of

• Shimano Altus M315 8×3 shifters
• Forged alloy 3 speed 48/38/28 crank with a Shimano Tourney TY710 front derailleur
• 8 speed 11-32 Shimano HG31 cassette with a Shimano Altus M310 read derailleur

This bike comes with all Shimano components for the drivetrain as you can see. This is good because this eliminates the need for extra tuning and other compatibility issues that come with using different brands. To give you peace of mind If you are new to cycling, Shimano is considered the best for drivetrain components and is both used and loved by the top of athletes all around the world.

The 8×3 setup means you will be having a lot of speeds you can choose from for any gradient. Easier gears are suitable for people who are away from bikes for a long time or riders who are trying to rehabilitate and recover from leg injuries as they allow a complete stroke.

Handlebar and Stem

The handlebar on this hybrid bike is a 620mm/660mm wide alloy handlebar from Trek’s in-house brand Bontrager whose products are very reputable and you’ll be seeing a lot of components made by Bontrager hereinafter. This particular handlebar has a comfort sweep which gives the handlebar a subtle ‘M’ shape which you normally see on a comfort cruiser.

The stem part is a little bit special because it comes with a Bontrager alloy quill which essentially means you can adjust the rise of the handlebar into any of the 64 degrees it permits. The stem is also longer, 85mm or 105mm depending on the size you are getting, which is a considered a norm for road and commute oriented bikes as you have more clearance for making turns.

Seatpost and Saddle

Trek Verve 2 comes with an alloy made Seatpost with adjustable suspension which plays an important role in adding the extra bit of comfort while riding in an upright position. This has an adjustable range of up to 27mm to absorb those shocks and bumps along your way.

This along with the Bontrager Boulevard comfort saddle, the ride quality is immaculate and easily one of the most appreciated features on the bike. It has a lot of cushioning and stays very comfy during longer rides.

You are lucky in this aspect as Trek Verve 2 only rim brakes until a few years ago and Trek made a great choice of switching to Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc brakes, Hence the name Trek Verve 2 Disc. Which are far more reliable and better in every aspect. They work flawlessly in any weather condition including damp conditions where rims brakes are scary to work with.

And they also offer the highest stopping power which comes in real handy when you are carrying more weight. Another pro of getting Hydraulic disc brakes as opposed to mechanical ones is that they are really easy to apply and maintain over time.

Both front and back hubs are made of Formula DC 6-bolt alloy (DC-20 in the front and DC-22 in the Back). Rims are Bontrager Connection which is double-walled and made of aluminum alloy for stiffer ride and strength of the wheels overall.

The stock tires which come with this bike are Bontrager H5 Comps, 700x45c which are wider than what you’d see on a road bike but not as much as a mountain bike. They roll pretty well on well-paved roads and gravel which is mostly the case for commuting and recreational riding.

The lack of front suspension doesn’t show due to these wider tires. Getting rid of the suspension allows for better energy transmission on the road as there are no power losses during pedaling.

Trek Verve 2 weighs in at 30.26 lbs or 13.73 kg for a size medium and has a total weight limit (weight of rider+cargo+bike) of 300 pounds or around 136 kg.

Sizes and Colors

As a typical Trek bike, this comes in 4 different sizes S, M, L, and XL, and a table with Trek Verve 2 size chart and geometry will be provided below.

This bike comes in Lithium Grey and Rage Red which are both stunning choices.

Trek Verve 2 Geometry Chart

Verve 2 Women’s

This bike is discontinued from 2019 but luckily you can get most of the features of Verve 2 Women’s from buying a Trek Verve 2 Low-step model. It has more standing clearance and accessibility of the women’s model.

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2019 Trek Verve 2

• Serial: WTU041C0889N
• Manufacturer: Trek
• Name: Trek Series
• Model: Verve 2
• Primary colors: Black
• Frame size: 20IN
• Wheel diameter: 700 C
• Frame Material: Aluminum

Distinguishing features

Verve 2 is a hybrid bike for commutes, cruises and fitness rides. It has a lot of details that make for a comfortable ride, like a padded saddle, suspension seatpost, adjustable stem and wide tyres for extra stability. Plus, it's equipped with a lightweight alloy frame and a wide-range 24-speed drivetrain that's great for terrain that varies in elevation.

• Verve 2 Disc Lowstep

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Forever prime

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Product features

Built for comfort.

Touchpoints like a cushy yet supportive seat, vibration-absorbing grips, and a suspension seat post make it your most comfortable ride ever.

Make it your own

Customize your bike with fenders, racks, bottle cages, and more to make it your own.

Lowstep geometry

Our lowest standover height means you don't have to hike your leg over the top tube. And it's easier to standover and put a foot down when stopping. Get down easy!

Alpha Aluminum frame

Trek’s high-performance Alpha Aluminum is shaped and tuned for unmatched ride quality.

Hydraulic disc brakes

Hydraulic disc brakes offer the absolute strongest stopping power in all conditions, including wet and muddy.

Suspension seatpost

Just the right amount of give to smooth out the bumps in the road at one of your most critical comfort points. Ahhhh.

Rack & fender ready

Built-in mounts make it easy to add racks and fenders for added versatility.

Stepthrough geometry

Easy-on, easy-off stepthrough frame is perfect for anybody not interested in slinging a leg over the top tube.

DuoTrap S compatible

DuoTrap S (sold separately) integrates a Bluetooth®/ANT+ sensor into the frame. Log routes and track fitness progress on your computer or smart phone with no external sensor. Works with all major ANT+ wireless players, including Bontrager, Garmin, PowerTap, and SRM.

Adjustable stem height

Adjust your stem height and your position on the bike with a single hand movement.

Blendr stem

Bontrager stem technology lets you clip your gear directly to the stem for clean looks, maximum user friendliness.

ThruSkew captured quick release skewer ensures your front wheel will never drop out unintentionally. A simple solution for added peace of mind. 

Internal cable routing

Internal cable routing protects the cables and helps streamline the bike.

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• Verve 2 Disc Lowstep

Trek Verve 2 Disc Lowstep

Verve 2 Disc Lowstep is a hybrid bike designed for comfort and fun on commutes, cruises, and fitness rides. It has a lot of thoughtful features that make for a confident and comfortable ride, like a lowstep geometry that makes it easy to mount and dismount, a suspension seatpost, and disc brakes that perform in any weather. It's right for you if... You're ready to get outside more, and want a hybrid bike with comfort-minded details, a wide range of gears for hills, powerful brakes, and enough versatility to conquer commutes, workouts, and more. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame with mounts for a rack and fenders, a lowstep design that makes it especially easy to mount and dismount, a reliable drivetrain with 24-speeds so you'll never have to pedal too hard or too soft, powerful disc brakes, an adjustable stem, a padded saddle, wide tires for extra stability, a road-smoothing suspension seatpost, and a geometry that keeps you in a comfortable, upright riding posture. The final word Verve 2 Disc Lowstep is a comfortable hybrid with impressive braking power and durable parts that will hold up mile after mile. It's a great bike for a range of recreational riders, from first-timers and commuters to veteran riders looking to get back into the saddle. Why you'll love it - It has a host of design details that make a huge difference in comfort, like a suspension seatpost and adjustable stem - The lowstep frame design makes it easy to get on and off—no need to swing your leg over! - This bike brings people together—attach a trailer and tow your kids, meet up with friends to cruise the bike path, or commute to the office with coworkers - Disc brakes perform well in any weather, let you slow down or stop faster, and require less effort to activate than rim brakes - Like every Trek hybrid, it's backed by Trek's Lifetime warranty, which means you get a companion for life

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

• Verve 2 Disc

• Trek Verve 2 2019

174cm - 187cm

164cm - 177cm

154cm - 167cm

185cm - 197cm

Bike summary

Bike components.

Alpha Gold Aluminum, DuoTrap S compatible, rack & fender mounts

Suspension Fork

Alloy w/lowrider mounts

Rear Derailleur

Shimano Altus M310

Front Derailleur

Shimano Tourney TY71

Shift Levers

Shimano Altus EF500, 8 speed

Shimano HG31, 11-32, 8 speed

Forged alloy, 48/38/28 w/chainguard

Bottom Bracket

Sealed cartridge

Bontrager Satellite City

Formula FM21 alloy

Bontrager Connection alloy, 32h

Bontrager H5, 700x45c

Tektro alloy linear-pull

Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, adjustable rise, Blendr compatible

Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm comfort sweep

Bontrager Satellite, ergonomic

1-1/8?, semi-integrated, semi-cartridge bearings

Bontrager padded

Alloy, adjustable suspension, 27.2mm

Bike geometry

About this model.

Verve 2 completes the Trek Verve model. Trek launched 78 bikes of this model so far. Take a sneak peek at all Trek Verve bikes models from 2019 , by clicking here .

Model range prices

Trek Verve 1 Women’s 2019 is the cheapest bike model and costs 449 $ . Trek Verve 3 2019 is the most expensive one and costs 669 $ .

Your safety is a top priority so always wear a helmet when you ride your bike. Moreover, wear the right clothing. You want to be visible to other drivers, so avoid wearing dark clothing.

Average price for Comfort bikes

Our math shows that the average cost of a dependable Comfort bike is 360 $ . However, paying less money than this amount doesn’t mean that you couldn’t get a great Comfort bike. To sum up, when you purchase your bike, make sure to check if it has reviews, and also do some components research.

When Trek released this model in 2019, its price was 569 $ . In conclusion, this bike price is 58.06 % higher than the price of the average Comfort bike.

Average weight for Comfort bikes

If we make a quick analysis of the average weight of a Comfort bike, we get 15.11 kg (33.31 lbs) . Having an easier bike than average will give you a great advantage on climbs. However, a heavier bike will gain more speed on descends.

much lighter than average, Verve 2 has a weight of 12.59 kg (27.76 lbs) . In other words, this model is 20.02% lighter than the average Comfort bike.

Verve 2 components

Fork material.

Verve 2 has an aluminum fork, which is a lighter material. However, it is not as tough, nor durable as steel is.

Wheels size

When leaving the production line, the Verve 2 model has 700c aluminum wheels. These are the most popular wheels for road, aero, gravel, cyclocross, race, and gravel bikes. However, these wheels don’t perform so well when passing over obstacles.

For your safety, it is important to have quality breaks on your bike. Trek Verve 2 has Rim brakes installed. Slightly lighter than hydraulic brakes, rim brakes are a budget choice. However, they are not nearly as effective as hydraulic brakes are.

Verve 2 comes in 4 sizes , that range from 174 cm – 197 cm (5.71 ft – 6.46 ft) . In conclusion, you won’t have a problem finding one that suits you.

Trek Verve models from 2024

Trek verve models from 2023, trek verve models from 2022, trek verve models from 2021, trek verve models from 2020, trek verve models from 2019, trek verve models from 2018, trek verve models from 2017, trek verve models from 2016, trek verve models from 2015, trek verve models from 2014, trek verve models from 2013.

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Trek Verve+ 2 Low-step Ebike review: A well-behaved city ebike

The trek verve+ 2 is an easy ebike with for commuters who only want a little extra help getting to work.

Tom's Guide Verdict

The Trek Verve+ 2 is a light and well-balanced electric bike with a responsive Bosch mid-drive motor. However, its relatively limited power assistance and high price makes it a tough sell among equally capable but lower cost ebikes.

Good balance and handling

Solid components

Responsive motor

Not much power assistance

No full-throttle mode

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

Battery: 400 Wh Max estimated range: 60 miles (Eco mode) Max assisted speed: 20 mph Motor: Bosch Active Line 250-watt mid drive motor Gearing: Shimano Alivio 9-speed Wheel diameter: 27.5 inches max Weight: 52 pounds

Most riders will find the Trek Verve+ 2 a little underpowered, especially compared to some of the best budget electric bikes from the likes of Rad Power, Juiced Bikes, and Aventon. On the other hand, for those who think those ebikes are somehow outre and want something subtler, this mild-mannered ebike may be just the thing.

Designed to be a daily commuter and weekend daytripper, the Trek Verve+ 2 doesn't make any radical design statements or excessive power moves. This road bike is for those who want a no-hassle, low-maintenance easy rider with reliable components. Indeed, the low-step version of the Verve+ 2 we tested even makes it easy to climb aboard.

Trek Verve+ 2 Ebike review: Price and availability

Founded in the '70s in Wisconsin, Trek has a reputation for solid construction and reliability — a reputation for which the company hopes shoppers are willing to pay a premium. Sold through retailers, Trek offers an extensive line of bikes, ranging from $13,000 carbon fiber road racers to full-suspension mountain bikes, as well as a full line of ebikes. 

The $2,849.99 Verve+ 2 sits somewhere in the middle of the company's ebike line. Compare, for example, Trek's Domane+ ALR, which is a more serious distance road bike that starts at $5,049.99 and the Townie Go 8D EQ Step-Over bike for Sunday beach bathers that starts at $2,449.99.

Trek's bikes are not available directly online but are rather ordered through retailers. The benefit is that you won't have to skin your knuckles assembling it yourself.

Trek Verve+ 2 Ebike review: Design

The Trek Verve+ 2 is designed for casual riders and commuters. It's available in sizes from XS to L, the largest of which will accommodate riders just over 6 feet tall. The bike has an aluminum frame with steel forks and wide straight handlebars for commuter comfort. You won't find mountain-bike style front shocks on the Verve+ 2, but a foam Bontrager seat with a suspension seat post takes the edge off of potholes.

Trek also includes a neat chain guard that runs nearly the full length and ensures you're not going to get a nice pair of pants or skirt mussied up in the gears. Furthermore, the essential power and brake wiring is fed through the down tube to keep things tidy and reduce the chances of damage. For convenience, front and rear quick release wheels are included.

To provide power assist, the Verve+ 2 uses a Bosch Active Line 250-watt, mid-drive motor to deliver smooth support and eliminate surprise surges of power. The bike has a top pedal assist speed of 20 mph and includes a Bosch controller and a 9-speed Shimano drivetrain with a 400Wh removable battery. Rounding out the feature list are hydraulic disc brakes, puncture-resistant tires, a kickstand and front and rear lights, plus metal fenders.

The Verve+ 2 also comes with a rear rack that uses the Racktime clip-on system, which makes it easy to use with compatible panniers and bags. One missing item: a bell or horn is not included, though it does have a headlight and taillight.

Trek Verve+ 2 Ebike review: Performance

The Trek Verve+ 2 offers smooth electric pedal assist performance and predictable handling. Its relatively light weight (52 pounds vs. 70 pounds for some ebikes) also makes it more maneuverable so riders will feel like they're in control of the bike — rather than vice versa.

Although there's no full-throttle mode, on city streets the mid-drive motor, which uses a torque sensor, is very responsive. The instant you apply pressure to the pedals you'll receive some electric assistance. That makes it more seamless than many rear-hub motor models, which tend to suffer from a delay or turbo lag. Consequently, the Trek Verve+ 2 helps you start off from a dead stop, and it's whisper quiet compared to rear motor designs. To bring everything to a halt, the bike's hydraulic brakes are responsive without being too touchy.

Taking the Trek for trips in the countryside presented more of a challenge. The mild power assist even in the top Turbo mode may feel insufficient in helping me climb hills. And if you get caught in the wrong gear on an incline, you'll find yourself getting up out of the saddle. So if you're looking for help on the hills in San Francisco or Asheville, look elsewhere.

One advantage of the Verve+ 2 is that you can use it in full manual mode. Electric support is not necessary. Compare that to big gravel bikes like those from Aventon or Biktrix, which are so heavy you'll never want to be stuck somewhere without power.

The Bosch controller for the electrics displays speed, range, amount of electric assistance selected, and the battery level. There's also a button for walk mode, but you're unlikely to need it unless you're pushing the bike up a steep hill. 

We also found that the front headlamp could be brighter for daytime visibility (initially, we didn't realize it was on).

Trek Verve+ 2 Ebike review: Battery life and range

The Bosch controller on the Verve + 2 is a basic LCD display that allows you to choose between four power assist modes: Turbo, Sport, Tour, and Eco. As the nomenclature might suggest, you'll get the most range out of Eco mode--up to 60 miles, according to Trek--and then in descending order less distance the more electric push you ask for with Turbo mode rated for 25 miles.

Because we didn't find the lower power modes much of a help on hills, we primarily used Turbo mode during our weeks of testing. Facing significant hills and with a 170-pound rider aboard, we got an average of 23 miles out of Turbo mode. That's a reasonable result, given the challenging terrain. But depending on where you ride, how much you weigh, and how much electric assistance you prefer, your mileage may vary.

Trek Verve+ 2 Ebike review: Competition

If you're looking for an ebike for between $1,400 and $1,900, there are a raft of choices from reputable but relative newcomers, including the Rad Power Rad City5 Plus , and the Charge Bikes City , both of which cost $1,799. In this end of the market, you'll get more power for your money, but the bikes typically use a less-desirable rear hub motor and are heavier, intended for gravel and occasional off-road use.

If you're considering the more suburban Trek Verve+2 and have the $2,800 to spare, there are plenty of choices from other established brands. Cannondale, for example, offers the Adventure Neo 4 for the same price and boasting nearly the identical powertrain and feature set. However, Cannondale's model has more style than the Trek bike, concealing the battery as part of its downtube, for example.

And if you want a truly no-fuss, sophisticated ebike commuter, our first choice is still the Gazelle Ultimate C380 HMB, although it's considerably more expensive ($4,249).

Trek Verve+ 2 Ebike review: Bottom line

It's difficult to make a value case for the Trek Verve+ 2. Among the best electric bikes and best budget electric bikes , there are many available with comparable abilities and much more power — for a lot less money. On the other hand, lighter casual riders will find the Verve+ 2 more manageable and maneuverable than many of those less expensive models. Furthermore, Trek is sold through traditional brick-and-mortar retailers versus models that are only sold directly online, so buyers don't have to face the annoyance of putting the bike together themselves.

John R. Quain has been reviewing and testing video and audio equipment for more than 20 years. For Tom's Guide, he has reviewed televisions, HDTV antennas, electric bikes, electric cars, as well as other outdoor equipment. He is currently a contributor to The New York Times and the CBS News television program.

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Trek Verve+ Review

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• Trek Reviews
• City Electric Bike Reviews
• Light Electric Bike Reviews
• Mid-Drive Electric Bike Reviews
• A versatile city electric bike with sturdy paint-matched aluminum fenders, a bright and aimable headlight as well as a flashing backlight (both are powered by the main battery), and mounting points for a bottle cage and rear rack
• Surprisingly comfortable, the wider tires provide cushion and stability, the saddle and suspension seat post reduce back pain, and the adjustable angle riser stem works perfectly with the swept back handlebars and ergonomic grips
• The most affordable electric bike model from Trek, it comes in three fun colors, two frame styles (high-step and step-thru), and three sizes each for optimal fit, hydraulic disc brakes require less hand strength and have adjustable-reach levers for smaller hands
• Uses the proven Bosch Powerpack 400 battery (the mount is compatible with the Powerpack 500), smaller Purion display is simple and durable but not removable, compact portable charger, efficient Active Line motor with shift detection

Video Review

Introduction

Body position:, suggested use:, electric bike class:, learn more about ebike classes, availability:, model year:, bicycle details, total weight:, battery weight:, motor weight:, frame material:, frame sizes:, geometry measurements:, frame types:, frame colors:, frame fork details:, frame rear details:, attachment points:, gearing details:, shifter details:, brake details:, seat post length:, seat post diameter:, tire brand:, wheel sizes:, tire details:, tube details:, accessories:, electronic details, motor brand:, motor type:, learn more about ebike motors, motor nominal output:, motor peak output:, motor torque:, battery voltage:, battery amp hours:, battery watt hours:, battery chemistry:, charge time:, estimated min range:, estimated max range:, display type:, display accessories:, drive mode:, written review.

EBR charges a service fee to manufacturers to produce ebike reviews and videos, this began in 2018. It’s the same flat fee for each bike, and it helps us to keep the site going while limiting ad clutter. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you with our opinions and data but respect your right to know that we receive compensation :)

Trek is one of the biggest, most trusted, bicycle companies in the world. Since ~2003 they have been developing ebike systems and I first saw them enter the US market around 2015. The bikes they put out are usually purpose-built around custom frames, available in multiple sizes that use leading components and come with excellent dealer availability and support. You get what you pay for, but that means their electric bikes tend to cost more… The Verve+ aims to lower the entry point price wise, without sacrificing a lot of feature. To be honest, it’s my favorite model in their line right now! This thing isn’t the fastest or most powerful, but it is extremely lightweight at ~45.6 lbs (especially considering that it has aluminum alloy fenders), and it’s very comfortable and safe. Trek marketing told me about their ABC’s campaign (always be seen) and I definitely noticed the integrated lights and shiny metallic color schemes with white accents. This is a neighborhood / city oriented product with efficient hybrid tires and upright geometry. It allows you spot for traffic while staying visible, and I would recommend a light colored helmet and reflective clothing if you do plan to ride through traffic regularly, especially at night. The headlight produces 400 Lumens, which is very bright, it’s aimable to let you see where you’re going as well as be-seen, and the rear light produces a strobe flash pattern that is attention grabbing. So many e-bikes use basic lights that aren’t bright and don’t flash… but there is one compromise here. The headlight is built into the steering tube vs. mounted to the fork or handlebars, and that means it doesn’t aim where you turn, it just goes straight. Given the toughness of these lights, the fact that they run off of the main battery pack, and the option of adding your own aftermarket light on the handlebar with the Blendr plastic mount… it’s not the end of the world. Let’s say you’re someone who might get groceries occasionally or commute to work with a laptop and other gear. the Verve+ will not only keep you dry and seen, but it can help sherpa your load because it has bottle cage bosses and rear-rack compatibility. I was told that it supports the Bontrager (a Trek brand) BackRack Disc which can be found here . There’s so much to say about this electric bicycle, even though I was given a grey high-step frame to test ride (because I’m a 5’9″ guy) there’s also a mid-step grey frame that would be easier to mount and stand over… and it looks pretty masculine. For those who like the bright fun colors, there’s a bright red option in step-thru as well. The tires are a bit wider and softer than average, which provides stability, and they have puncture protective layers to help reduce flats. I was able to ride around Fort Collins, Colorado through some snow, puddles, grass, and bumpy sidewalks without issue, even riding with no hands to test stability. The bike works great and is very quiet and smooth.

Part of what makes the Verve+ lightweight, efficient, quiet, and smooth is the base-level Bosch Active Line Cruise motor. It’s rated from 250 watts to 295 watts and can deliver up to 40 Newton meters of torque. Mid-drives tend to be more powerful in practice than their numbering portrays, because they rely on your gears to maximize torque or power. If you shift to a lower gear, not only will it be easier for you to pedal, but the motor will also get a mechanical advantage and have an easier time. The 9-speed cassette offers more than enough pedaling options for urban use and the mid-level Shimano Alivio derailleur is crisp and reliable. Unlike some the off-road and high speed motors that Bosch produces, the Active Line and Active Line Plus have a one-to-one chainring that does not require a reduction gear. This means that there is no friction if you decide to pedal with the bike powered off, or if you work hard and pedal beyond the top assisted speed of 20 miles per hour. As a Class 1 electric bicycle, this bike is allowed in the most places, and is treated as a bicycle vs. a moped, so you don’t need a license or insurance to ride. Trek has gone out of their way to disable the walk mode feature that Bosch usually offers, in order to avoid having regulators and cyclists feel like there is any kind of throttle support. I admire their purist bicycle background, and I feel that this motor choice is perfect for the Verve+ platform. Trek has many other city or hybrid city+trail models worth exploring, but they all weigh more and cost more. When you’re able to go from an 8.8 lb Bosch Performance Line motor to a 6.4 lb ActiveLine, and you make some compromises on the battery, display, and are able to produce ultra lightweight hydroformed aluminum frames… you get a good end result.

And so, the battery on this ebike is also lightweight, because it is one step down from the higher-level Powerpack 500. Bosch has been offering the Powerpack 400 since ~2013 in the United States, and it is highly trusted and appreciated by all of the shops and end-customers I have visited with over the years. There aren’t really many compromises to discuss here, except that the battery is visually obvious on the frame. It looks great on the Antracite Grey frame I was loaned for this review, because the top portion of plastic is grey… but it doesn’t blend in quite as well on the Coral Red or Deep Dark Blue. People might not be able to hear the motor, or even see it very well behind the standard 38 toot chainring, but they can see the battery. The upside however, is that the pack is easy to reach for charging and safer to mount and dismount. Yes, you can take it off to reduce weight of the frame or to charge it separately (away from extreme cold and heat if you can help it). This pack has a nice big loop handle at the top, making it easy and safe to carry. It has a little 5-LED power indicator on the left side, so you can tell if it’s charged up before mounting to the frame. And, it uses the same proprietary plug design as the mount, which means you don’t need to keep track of special adapters or extra wires. The motor, the battery pack, and the charger for this bike have all been specced down just a bit, and what that means for the charger is that it puts out 2 Amps vs. 5 Amps and may take longer to fill this 396 watt hour Lithium-ion pack. Something like 5.5 hours from complete empty, but the first half fills much faster than the last because the cells aren’t being balanced as carefully. You can extend the life of this battery by keeping it around 50% full when not using for months on end. And, if you break, lose, or simply run the battery completely dry after 1,500+ charge cycles, you will easily be able to find a replacement… or even upgrade to the 20% higher capacity Bosch Powerpack 500, because it’s built into the same case design, and fits into the same mount. Finally, a word of caution, if you are charging the battery on the frame, be careful not to move the crank arms because the charging plug enters near the left crank and could get snagged or bent.

Operating this bike is pretty simple, and fast. Once the battery has been charged and mounted, you can press the little minus sign on the left side of the battery or press the power button on the top edge of the compact display panel. This display is called the Purion, and it’s usually found on less expensive Bosch powered bikes or mountain models, where they want a sturdier and less obvious display. It’s not as large as the Bosch Intuvia, does not swivel, is not removable, and does not have an active Micro-USB port… which is sad, because that can be useful for maintaining a phone or other portable electronics, and there is a port, but it’s apparently only used for diagnostics by the shop. Even though we are already dealing with the lower capacity battery, and it’s running the lights here, it would be nice to at least have the option to charge mph phone for GPS while I was riding. Perhaps Bosch will offer this someday? Other than those gripes, the display is actually really good. It’s positioned within reach of the left grip, so you can click the + and – buttons while riding to raise or lower motor support. There are four drive modes: eco, tour, sport, and turbo, and they increase both the starting force and zip feel as well as the maximum supported speed. If you’re riding for fun, or maybe through a crowded area, the lower levels can be very satisfying. I have actually heard some people complain about how other electric bikes feel overwhelming or too fast, but that won’t be an issue here. Some of the other features of this display are that it has a faint white glow which is always active and helps it be read at night or in low lighting conditions, it can show your trip distance, odometer, and range estimate by holding the minus key, and it activates the front and rear bike lights by holding the plus key. For those who wish to have an even larger display with additional readouts and removability (perhaps for commuting situations), I have been told that some ebike shops will upgrade the Purion to Intuvia for $200+, but this will take up the space where the Blendr accessory mount would otherwise fit on.

In my experience, ebikes are the most fun when they are comfortable. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Verve+ because it has an all-Aluminum frame with a rigid fork. In practice, the slightly fatter tires, larger saddle, suspension seat post (basic as it is), and adjustable stem, won me over. It feels stable and maneuverable, the lighter overall weight makes it easier to walk with and lift when necessary, and the fenders and lights are so well done. Keep an ear out when watching the video review above, I was amazed by how quiet the fenders were. Perhaps Trek could offer a chain protector, to keep your pants even cleaner, but the alloy chainring guard is good enough. I love how frame tubing is molded to look cool, even flattening out where the battery mounts to keep it lower and appear more streamlined. some wires are internally routed, but not all, and I did notice a plastic slap guard to protect the paint on the rear right chain stay. This is an electric bike that could be fun for couples, or “imbalanced couples” where one rider enjoys non-electric cycling and the other stresses about wind and hills or has some hip or knee sensitivity as I do. Yes, the Active Line motor is weaker than some other brands and even some options from Bosch, but it still performs well and can climb. The maximum weight rating for the Verve+ is an impressive 300 lbs, which is above the average 250 lbs from other companies. Considering that this is Trek’s most affordable electric bike, it really doesn’t feel like they sacrificed on the parts that matter (the drivetrain and safety). One happy benefit of the smaller more efficient motor here, is that it uses energy slower, and should get 30 to 80+ miles per charge depending on your weight, terrain, wind etc. Big thanks to Lee’s Cyclery in Fort Collins, Colorado for receiving this bike and letting me hang out and review it. And, to Trek, for partnering with me on this post and providing other demo opportunities in the past. You can explore all of my Trek ebike reviews here and post your comments and questions below, or visit the Trek Forums here to connect with others. Ride safe, and have fun!

• The frames are totally custom and purpose-built to electric, notice how some of the cables are internally routed and the downtube flattens to create strength for the battery mount interface
• I love that you can get the Verve+ in four sizes, four colors, and two different styles (high-step for taller people and step-thru for people who might have a hip or knee sensitivity and want easier mounting)
• It’s nice to have fenders to stay dry and clean, these ones were sturdy, quiet, and painted to match the frame color, I love how the light is built into the back fender
• The lights on this ebike are very nice, the headlight is aimable up and down while offering 400 lumens! both lights run off of the main battery so they are very convenient (just hold + to turn them on or off), the rear light blinks for added visibility
• For those who want to mount a Garmin GPS, GoPro, additional headlight or cycle computer, Trek includes a couple of “Blendr” plastic mounts that fit seamlessly into the stem cap
• The drivetrain is is pretty nice, nine speeds is more than most value city bikes I test and the Alivio groupset is three steps up so it will shift smoothly and require fewer tuneups
• The new Bosc Active Line Cruise motor is the lightest in the line at ~6.4 lbs and operates very quietly and efficiently, it felt satisfying to ride and always under control, starting and stopping quickly as I pedaled
• With the motor and battery mounted low and center, these bikes handle very well, I was able to ride with no hands for long stretches and the larger tires tracked beautifully
• As someone with a sensitive back and neck, the upright geometry here felt excellent, it allowed me to spot fellow cyclists, pedestrians, and cars as I performed the review ride
• Minor pro here, but the black spokes, grey accent on the battery casing, and traditionally sized chainring with alloy guard (which helps to hide the motor) look nicer than a lot of competing products, Trek pays attention to details
• Even without a suspension fork, the bike feels pretty comfortable because of the wide PSI range on the tires (60 to 80 PSI) and adjustable suspension seat post, I also like the ergonomic grips and medium-width saddle
• Performing maintenance should be easy with quick release wheels, the mid-drive motor stays out of the way of the drivetrain more than hub motor powered electric bikes, you shouldn’t get flats as frequently because the tires have “Hardcase Ultimate” puncture protection
• The pedals here aren’t my personal favorite because I like extra wide with metal pins like these for maximum power transfer and grip… but they are still a nice upgrade from cage pedals that bend easily, I like that they are stiff and have extra rubber tread for grip that won’t cut your shins if you slip off
• Weighing in at ~45 lbs, this is one of the lighter electric city bikes that I have seen with a mid-drive and metal fenders, it will be easier to walk with and lift up stairs etc. but you can also remove the battery pack easily to shave another ~5 lbs off
• So many electric bikes forego bottle cage bosses and don’t have extra mounting points for front or rear racks, but the Verve+ does! And you can use the official Bontrager BackRack Disc which is disc brake compatible for a guaranteed fit here
• With a maximum rider+cargo weight of 300 lbs, this electric bike can handle more weight than a lot of competing products, most others are rated to ~250 but Trek makes durable frames that are tested more rigorously
• The Bosch Purion display panel is sleek and durable, but you cannot remove it easily for protection and the smaller size makes it harder to read than the Intuvia display, it also doesn’t have an active USB charging port built in
• Trek has disabled walk mode on all of their electric bikes, this isn’t a big deal for a lightweight city model like the Verve+ but could still come in handy if you got a flat or were pushing the bike with a rack and a bunch of gear added
• As nice as the headlight is, the beam is permanently focused forward because it’s built into the head tube, it won’t turn as you steer
• The battery charger is slower than the other one Bosch includes with more expensive products, it puts out 2 amps vs. 4 amps and is only slightly smaller and 0.4 lbs lighter
• Minor consideration here… it would be nice if in addition to the chainring guard and fenders, the Verve+ also had a full chain cover to keep your pant legs or skirt from touching the greasy chain
• It feels like the new Bosch Active Line motors kind of stick when trying to pedal backwards and almost catch for a second when the motor cuts out, perhaps theres gearing inside that caries the spindle, chainring, and crank arms forward for a moment? Not a huge deal, but just not as smooth as the Bosch Performance line
• The Bosch Active Line Cruise motor only supports up to 100 RPM, so if you’re in a low gear or just trying to spin really fast, the motor won’t keep up as much as it would on the Active Line Plus or Performance Line motors… so you have to shift gears and keep your cadence a bit slower for support (many other mid-drive motors also cut out around 100 RPM, so this is par for the course with city bikes and an efficient drive system vs. speed or power setup)
• Official Site: https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/hybrid-bikes/electric-hybrid-bikes/verve/verve/p/1348000-2018/
• More Pictures: https://photos.app.goo.gl/OCuyHvzEzpJytfE03

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Comments (53) YouTube Comments

We bought this model (the step-through version) for my wife and it is super smooth and ultra-quiet. The torque is decent. It’s a great cruiser. It’s also surprisingly light. The 400 ah battery pack lasts about as long as my 500 ah pack for my Bulls Six50 which is heavier, faster, and has more torque. But the two bikes are very different animals. The Verve is a street/pavement/smooth trails kind of bike and it’s really hard to tell your being powered by something else. You just feel magically strong. The integrated headlight is decent for a be-seen kind of light and might also do for a seeing light in most conditions if you’re not going too fast. We like the Bosch systems for ease of use and the warranty.

Fantastic, thanks for the summary John! I’m glad to hear that you and your wife are enjoying the e-bikes so much. It’s cool to hear your description of performance given that you have two to compare side by side. It sounds like the Verve+ has been a great fit for her :)

Anand Nathan Somasundaram

Do you think the xm700 is worth the 1300 premium over verve+ if I am riding in boston, hauling groceries.

Terri Laughlin

Hi, Court. Can you please do a Verve +2 review since the bike was redone for 2020? My 6’1″ daughter is wanting to buy one for herself. I love your reviews…your Liberty Trike reviews cinched a sale for Liberty Trike since I have epilepsy and cannot ride a bicycle any longer after crashing a couple of times. Even a brief petit mal seizure is enough to cause a crash on a 2-wheel bike. I watched your many trike reviews and settled on the LT. Thanks again, and Happy Holidays from South Florida. God Bless.

A Verve+ 2 review would be amaaaaazing, Court! I am a huge fan of your YT channel, and can’t wait to see your review of that bike. I watched your video of the “original” Verve+, but there are enough things that are different about it this year to make me a little concerned. I wish I could check one out in person, but so far, no luck. Your review would be the next best thing to that, for sure. I already own two Trek bikes (an X-Caliber 8 and an FX hybrid), so I know that this one will feel comfortable at least. I am just interested to see all of the other details, and to hear your overall opinion of the bike. I am planning to purchase one within the next 1-2 months. Anyway, thanks!!!!! :D

Great review, Court. Based on your review, we bought this bike from a local Trek dealer for my wife recently, and we are very happy with it so far. We first bought a Voltbike Elegant online, but had unresolved electrical issues and returned it for a full refund. That experience emphasized to me the importance of local support for an e-bike, as they are definitely more complicated than a conventional bike. Also, for the brief time that the Voltbike Elegant worked, it was way overpowered for what my wife required. I’m also now sold on the smoothness and quietness of the mid-mounted Bosch motor-battery combination as compared to the hub motor on the Elegant. Even though this is the least powerful Bosch motor, my 60 year old wife had no problem beating me up a short, but steep hill this past weekend. Overall I’m impressed with the build quality and the light weight of the bike. Even after adding a rear rack, the total weight of the bike is about 47 pounds. Paid about $2100 for the Verve+ on sale. The extra cost over the Elegant is worth it in my opinion, both for the quality of the components, and also the peace of mind with local support.

Hi Roger! So well said, thank you for taking the time to share your story and include details about how the VoltBike Elegant felt a little too zippy for your wife. I really love the Trek Verve+ because it uses quality components and feels natural. I’m sure your post will help others who might be weighing the cost savings against the performance and support. Having a local shop makes a big difference :) hope you two continue to enjoy riding together, thanks again!

Hi, I’d like to buy the first electric bicycle. I will use it especially when traveling around the city. The roads are often a bit steep and bumpy. Can you tell me if this electric bicycle (Verve+) is also convenient to use in the city? I would not want to spend more than the price of this electric bicycle. I would like a nice electric bicycle, but sporty and above all comfortable even for the city with slightly uphill and somewhat bumpy roads. Do you recommend it or do you recommend a different electric bicycle for me? 1000 thanks for your valuable advice.

Stephen Mercier

HI Court. Question; We live in a really hilly area and my wife and I both have ebikes currently. Mine has plenty of hill climbing capacity (twin batteries = 17 Ah and a 500 watt motor) but my wife has a simple Yunbike C1 (which is a cool little bike and she has manged to climb some steep grades in it). Do you think the Trek Verve is a suitable upgrade at hill climbing and range capacity?

Cool! I remember the Yunbike, cute little thing :) yearh, the Trek Verve is going to be more efficient and capable of climbing because it utilizes the Bosch mid-drive. The Trek Verve+ is one of my favorite ebikes in general, great value, and even though the motor produces a little bit less torque than the Performance Line models, it should still work well if she shifts gears down and uses the higher levels of assist for climbing. I’d love to hear how it works for you guys, if you go for it! And, you should be able to find one to test ride at a dealer beforehand, to confirm power, which is nice.

Had mine for a week now, it’s great. Everything it claims and more. So I’ll just make a few new observations. The walk mode works (maybe as of 2018). The pedals are 1-2″ higher than on a non + version. That means you need to raise the seat higher for the same leg extension, which can lead to a lesser upright posture. The post below the cross bar (the one that holds the seat post) on my 18.5″ is too short to hold my 24oz polar water bottle. The gearing is the best I have every had. The 9 gears work flawlessly and in conjunction with the 5 (including off) power modes essentially gives you 45 speeds. With the power assist off, it preforms exactly like a non e-bike. The battery holds a charge. (I ride 15+ miles/day with about 5 mile using e assist, and probably only need to charge the battery once a week). I love ergo grips and these are the perfect shape and size, but I find them rough on the hands and also sweaty. One last thing, when I finally found one my color and size, about 50 miles away, I couldn’t decide. This bike shop said I had 14 days to return for full refund. Sure made my decision to buy a lot easier.

p.s. non e-related, I wish Verves (and +’s) had the front suspension back. Any suggestions on how to replace front fork with suspension one and where to get it? Maybe from a 2016 Verve, or older Navigator or Shift?

Hi Jack! Thanks for all of your feedback, I agree that the Trek Verve+ is an awesome electric bike. Was thinking about your interest in upgrading from rigid to a suspension fork and found the RockShox Paragon that should fit the 1-1/8″ straight steering tube. You could get one of these (compatible with your 700c wheels and disc brakes) and have a shop install it for you :) I hope this helps and I welcome your feedback if you do it, and pictures if you do the install yourself or have a great looking final product. You could share in the Trek ebike forums :D

I talked to my bike shop and suggested the Paragon too, but now they are saying I also need to replace the stem. Does that seems right?

Mid-August this year I purchased two Verve + Bicycles at a local TREK dealer in Mishawaka, IN on sale, I could not pass up the deal. After shopping for about a month and test riding about three other bikes, I decided on the BOSCH mid drive used here. The following weekend, I took them on a family camping trip up north. The bikes performed excellently… on hard packed trails. I’m 63, long time cyclist, now I can extend my range once again. One of best entry-level ebikes on the market… thanks again for your review and professionalism, keep up the good work.

Hi Gary! What a great testimonial, thanks for spending the time to share your experience here with us. I hope the Verve+ continues to ride well for you! Enjoy your time with family outdoors, sounds great :)

Judy Reckart

Hey Court: A general, but sincere, thanks for your candid and informed reviews – especially helpful to e-bike noob me. Have watched probably 15 of your reviews while researching my first e-bike purchase, which I’ll make within the week. Am leaning toward the Trek Verve+ step-through after considering similar Rad City and Populo models: the Verve’s 45-ish lb. weight, disc brakes, Bosch system AND local dealer support are calling! Again, truly appreciate your pointing out details and features (both pro and con) that I’d surely overlook if I were buying without your guidance. Ride on – and keep up the good work!

Fantastic! I’m so excited for you, Judy. It’s wonderful to be in a position where I can help people and also provide a space for interconnection. Ebikes are such a positive technology, but I realize they can also be quite expensive. Reach out anytime, hope you have a great day!

Hi Court: First, I want to say thank you for your excellent reviews of so many e-bikes. I am looking to move into e-bikes for my wife and I. We are both 64 and would like to extend our riding years and distance. In addition, I will be 65 next month and used to commute to work about 12 miles each way on my road bike (2006 Trek Madone 5.5 CD). I haven’t bike commuted in a few years but would like to bike commute most days for the next couple of years while still working daily. As a Type-1 diabetic for 34 of my 64 years I can confirm that cycling and good blood sugar management has extended my life! We have direct access both from home and from my office to the the beautiful American River Bike Trail which I would ride for about 10 of those 12 miles (no cars!). For me, I think I am most interested in the Trek Super Commuter +7 (Class 1 e-bikes are permitted on the AR Bike Trail). For my wife, I was thinking about the Trek Verve +. She is a fit and active and also rides a 2006 Trek Madone 5.2 triple, but at the end of our rides we have a short 12% (confirmed today with my Garmin) hill leading up to our house from the bike trail. On occasion, if we have ridden over 15 miles, she will need to walk up that hill. She is about 5’3″ and about 130 lbs. My question is “Do you think the Trek Verve + is capable of assisting her up that 12% grade short hill at the end of a longer ride ride?” She has never ridden an e-bike, but I think if the gearing and power are adequate to assist he up that last hill, she will love it. Thanks again!

Sorry for the delayed reply here Glenn! I’ve been traveling and a bit behind on comments and posts of late. Yes, I do think that the Trek Verve+ will handle the 12% grade, especially if she’s under 150 lbs. I weigh ~135 lbs myself and haven’t had any issues with climbing as long as the bike is shifted into a lower gear (which means you go slower) and the assist level is up high in Sport or Turbo. Even though this ebike uses the Active Line motor, it is still VERY capable when used appropriately with the 9-speed cassette :) please share back if/when you guys buy this bike and get a chance to test ride together!

Thanks for the detailed reply. The Trek Verve + sounds like it is a very capable e-bike. I went to my LBS “Trek Bicycle Sacramento Midtown” last Friday to buy the Trek Super Commuter +7 (for me) and the Trek Verve + Step Through (for my wife). I was able to pick up the SC +7 but the Verve + was out of stock and evidently Trek has a 1 1/2 to 2 month backlog. The crew at the Trek store was very helpful and were able to work out a great deal for us on the SC +7 and an Electra Townie Commute 8i for my wife, which they ordered and could get in 1 week. I will post comments on the EBR review sections for those two bikes. I think she will be very happy with the Electra Townie Commute 8i. Thanks again.

Awesome! Yes, I agree that the Electra Townie Commute 8i is an excellent choice as well. I believe that Trek now owns Electra, so you’ll still get great service and also benefit from the similar Bosch drive system. Excited to hear your feedback down the line and I hope the bike arrives soon so you can both ride together this summer :D

I have had the VERVE step thru for a month now. It allows me to ride a bike on trips that were impossible on normal bikes. I commute to work a couple of days a week and for 90% of the trip, it is heaven. My three unfortunate gripes:

• VERY steep hills are almost impossible, I wish it had a bit more assist
• Gear changing is very clunky, I am going to take it to a shop to look into this further
• The pedals are very slippery with just a bit of water, these need replaced

I was not able to activate the walk feature, but will try again after reading another post saying it now works.

Thanks for the feedback SJT! The Active Line motors are less powerful than the Bosch Performance Line but much lighter… I wonder if you’ve shifted to the lowest gears when trying to climb steep hills? I didn’t have any hills nearby during my ride test. As for walk mode, it seems like some Trek models have it enabled for 2018 but maybe not all. You would need to be in one of the four levels of assist (Eco, Tour, Sport, Turbo) then press walk mode then hold +. I hope this helps :)

I was able to make it up the hill by following your direction to go to lowest gear! thanks a million

This is a GREAT review and I loved your very comprehensive video. Thank you so much! I just purchased this bike and now have to patiently wait for delivery. It is back-ordered!

Cool! I’m glad the review helped and am excited for you, this is a nice electric bike :D feel free to chime in again someday when it has arrived and you’ve had some time in the saddle, I’d love to hear your thoughts :)

So, I now own this bike and I love it! This is coming from someone who has traditionally not liked bike riding. An ebike takes away all of the “pain points” that I used to have with riding bikes — mainly hills. One thing that I love, too, is that it’s so much easier to ride an ebike in high traffic situations b/c you can get up to speed from a complete stop much faster.

On to the Trek: I rented another ebike before I purchased the Verve. One thing I like about the Verve is the amount of power it produces. The bike I rented produced too much power on the 2nd setting. I felt out of control very quickly. This bike is super comfortable to ride , with the exception, perhaps of the saddle. It’s just “ok”.

This is a great bike for someone who wants to use an ebike for commuting, running errands, pleasure riding. I put a rear rack on the bike and have a grocery pannier and it’s been a pleasure to start biking for some errands rather than driving.

Hey Court, thanks for this great review! I’ve spent so much time researching (mostly through your reviews and forum, so thanks again!), and I think I may have narrowed it down between this and the Raleigh Misceo iE Sport 2017 which is just $1,699 right now. On one hand the Raleigh looks like a pretty good deal, but on the other, I do like the Verve specs overall. Care to weigh in?

Hi Pirx! That’s a tough call, both drive systems are great… Bosch is usually my favorite but I haven’t heard about any issues from Shimano with their E6000. You’ll have more battery availability and probably a wider dealer network to get help from with Trek but the lower price of the Raleigh Misceo iE Sport is pretty tempting. Perhaps it comes down to aesthetics, local dealers (or maybe you were planning on buying from the Raleigh website). If price were no issue, I’d go for the Verve+ because I like the frame and brand better but they should both perform pretty well for most situations :)

Question Court : If you could have your choice of the 2018 Verve + or the the 2018 powerfly 5 for the same price which would you take ?

Hi Stephen! I’d definitely go for the Powerfly 5 because the larger tires and suspension offer great comfort. The body position is a bit more aggressive, but that can be changed by swapping the handlebar and stem. I actually ride a full suspension plus sized tire mountain bike most days (in the city) just for comfort and the ability to ride across grass and off of curbs. I work harder because of the tire drag, but that’s worth it to me in exchange for comfort. I have my own rechargeable lights from Cygolite , I wear a hydration pack from Osprey pack with hydration bladder, and I added little plastic mud guards to stay safe, hydrated, and dry-ish :P

I just took the Verve+ for a test ride yesterday and loved it, but am wondering if it’s powerful enough for kid hauling. My current set up has a Yepp seat on the back rack for my 3 year old, and a follow-me tandem on the back axle for towing my 6 year old when he’s worn out or the roads are too busy. I’m considering an e-bike because of a steep hill that is often fun on my road bike but impossible with little passengers (and leaves me looking rather a mess on arrival). Do you think the Verve+ can handle the extra work of carrying kids and their cargo? Or should I be looking for more of a cargo bike, or even another ebike with more torque? Thanks for any feedback!

Great question, Sarah! There are lots of variables to consider here, but yes. I do think that if you shift to the lowest gears and bring the assist level all the way up, this bike would be able to tackle moderately steep hills without leaving you exhausted and sweaty. There are indeed, more powerful ebike motors out there (like the Bosch Performance Line), but they add to the cost and weight of the bike. I’m not sure how heavy you and your child are, because weight does make a difference, but the motor is very capable when operating in combination with bike gears. This has a lot more to do with how you ride than how the motor performs alone. As a fairly active rider myself, I strongly prefer a lightweight nimble ebike like this than a heavy V8 type of setup. However, if that’s more of what you want, consider moving up slightly in power to the Electra Townie Go models or a lot with a Pedego or Electric Bike Company model.

Is there any suggestions to help new knee cap pain while using recently acquired Verve+ ? I’ve tried adjusting the saddle height and moving it back and forth. Noted that the Verve+ crank arms are 5mm longer and distance between pedals are wider than my road bikes. Never get knee pain on road bike.

Hmm, I’m not a doctor but the first things that crossed my mind were IT Band tightness in your legs… perhaps you’ve been riding more frequently or further? Maybe pushing harder or perhaps the saddle and pedal position are creating an angle in your hips and knees that is causing pain? Might be worth visiting the bicycle shop for proper fitting and maybe consider your shoes? I’m interested to hear back as you work through this. My own knees tend to be sensitive when riding bicycles up steep hills or hike down hills or walk down stairs but I started Glucosamine Chondroitin and MSM joint relief supplement daily to help. I think it does help, do you do anything like that?

Rande Shaffer

Hi Court, just discovered your website in my research for the purchase of our first electric bikes and I have to tell you how terrific your reviews are in hitting every point of consideration. We have narrowed our search down to this model (Trek Verve +) and the Electra Townie Go 8i. I am 5’10” and my wife is just under 5’2″ so it seems like we can get a better fit on the Verve given the various size choices. The Townie seems more comfortable with its flat foot technology, but we are also looking to get the exercise benefits (had to stop running due to hip/knee issues) so any input is appreciated.

Wonderful! Thanks for the encouragement and great feedback Rande. I definitely work hard on these and do my best to be thorough and accurate. Both of the ebikes you’re considering are great. The Verve+ is my personal favorite because of the value price point, additional sizes, and great accessories. You’re correct that it is not as relaxed as an Electra Townie Go, but the seatpost suspension helps and it will be fine if you’re mostly on smooth paths and streets. it’s actually more comfortable to pedal with because it’s not a flat foot design, and the sporty saddle won’t chaff your legs. It sounds like you’re fairly healthy, and it will be wonderful to ride with your wife. I got into ebikes because of knee sensitivity, so I feel like I can relate to your situation. I think you’ll be very happy with the Verve+ but it would be great if you could test ride both! Most Trek dealers also have an Electra Townie (even if it’s not electric) that you could sit on and get a feel for. Try to visit a dealer if you can :) I’d love to hear what you choose and how it works out for you two someday!

I’m trying to decide between The Trek Verve+, The Gazelle Medeo T-9, and the Aventon Pace 500. I really like the lightness of the Trek and the Hybrid aspect to ride on packed dirt trails, and the hydraulic brakes, but also like the more powerful motor of the Gazelle and really like their color selection and its appearance much more. Any advice between those two? I’m test riding the Aventon as well this weekend. Thanks so much for your helpful previews.

Karin Clifford

My husband decided to buy a Trek Super Commuter 8 for work. He encouraged me to look at the Verve+, saying if I had an e-bike we’d be able to do long rides together on trails and all over our hilly town. Reading reviews from people in my age group is what convinced me that this is exactly when I need to enjoy riding more and no longer dread falling way behind. Well, was thrilled and amazed when we made a trip to Boise, Idaho, and brought our bikes to ride on the Greenbelt! We rode longer and further than ever! All the slight uphill sections on trails that you encounter in an underpass no longer slowed me down! Riding into the wind is no longer a problem. And I am excited to do local rides on our trails here in Moscow, Idaho, which I have avoided because of hills or riding into the wind. I still ride my commuter bike to exercise classes three mornings a week because it’s a flat and short ride, plus I love my other bike (my retirement gift). Now I have two wonderful step-through bikes that I alternate between, depending on my destination, and I plan to ride for many, many years!

Hi Karin! This is wonderful to read. I’m so glad you decided to give ebiking a try and have had such great results. Thanks for sharing your feedback here with us :)

After test riding several different ebikes including the Electra Townie Go! (3 different versions), the Specialized Como and Vado, a Giant and the Trek Verve+, I decided to go with the Verve+.

I’ve had the bike for a few days and have put 30 miles on it on local streets, trails and bike paths. I’m in my early 50’s and don’t bike as much as I should because of the discomfort I experience on my hybrid bike, however, after using an Electra Townie Go! (loaner from a hotel in Portland I was staying at last month), I was totally hooked on the ebike concept and the Comfort styling of the Townie. The only questions were, what can I afford?, and what is going to suit me best?

I’m coming from a decent standard hybrid bike, that despite every conceivable adjustment of the bars and seat I’ve made, my hands, thumbs and backside get quickly fatigued, go numb or cramp up after about 5 miles or riding. I even got an extra squishy gel seat. . . . and still I was enduring pain in the hands and backside. After riding the Townie and being able to crank out 20 miles pretty easily without pain and numbness, it seemed like I found my solution.

After a lot of test rides and advice from a few different bike shops, I went with the Trek Verve+. This was in part because it was one of the few in the Comfort class that had any suspension at all (seat suspension).

The bike has the same Bosch system as the Townie and operates well. While not exactly the same level of comfort as the Townie (or Como), the Verve+ can get close to the same riding comfort PLUS it does have some suspension support in the seat. So far the Verve+ performs well and the assist from the Bosch system has made a tremendous difference in my range. The bike is quite, shifts well, is solid and so far, seems to do what it’s supposed to do.

I live in Michigan where our roads are terrible! I travel a lot for work and I can say, we may have the worst roads in the country as far as I can tell. The Townie that I did 20 miles on was in Portland, OR where the roads are a heck of a lot better than they are where I am. And wile I did test ride all of the bikes on local streets and a few paved paths, I didn’t really see how they would perform on some of our potholed, shoddy patched roads. This is where my caution comes in.

Because the Verve has no suspension other than in the seat, you feel EVERYTHING! If you’re riding on a rough road, path, street, etc. it is shockingly jarring. Yesterday I thought I cracked my tooth when I hit a rather modest hole on a gravel trail and my teeth slammed together HARD!

On well groomed limestone or gravel trails, asphalt or concrete paths, the bike is wonderful. On poor Michigan roads, or any surface that is not smooth, be prepared to get beat up by the road.

Overall I like the bike very much, however, I will have to carefully consider where I can and cannot ride it for fear of losing teeth. It would be great if bikes in this class came with a front suspension option. I would gladly pay a bit more for a comfort style bike that had some form of shock absorption.

Hi Kevin! Thanks for sharing some of your time to write this great review. I hope you have a great time riding this summer :D

Kevin Breslin

UPDATE: After less than 1 year, I’ve broken 2 spokes on the rear tire. and NOT, I’m NOT taking the bike off road, doing jumps, hitting curbs, etc. I ride on limestone and asphalt trails, yet I’m breaking spokes. I’m not that heavy and definately do approach the max weight rating of the bike.

Even with my added GOLD service plan from the reseller, it’s a $65 trip to the bike shop for a repair and this year because of C-19 that’s a 4-6 week WAIT.

At this rate, this bike is going to get VERY expensive to own.

Also, I finally broke down and bought a replacement seatpost (SATORI Animaris Bicycle Suspension Seatpost) which has helped with the jarring bumps. That was an additional $65.

My wife purchased a Specialized Turbo Como and rides along side me everywhere and thus far hasn’t needed any repairs or upgrades. . . .

In total, less than 1 year into having the bike I’ve already spent almost $200 in repairs and necessary upgrades.

Had I known this from the start, I would have likely purchased a different bike.

Trek must have read this review and took everything to heart because I bought the Trek Verve+ 2 which addresses a lot of the issues in this review. Headlight is now mounted on the front wheel and there’s a chain guard. The model is now just step through apparently. Very comfortable for my 50km total commute.

Wonderful! Thanks for the updates, Jimmy! I’m excited to review some of the new Trek models, including the Verve+ 2 and will keep an eye out for the changes :D

Cheryl Lombardi

What would the range difference be if you bought the higher battery? I am only 111 pounds so looking at the 2018 model however my other concern is where the water bottle is placed, on my test ride I kept bumping my legs into the water bottle frame, can this be mounted somewhere else? I loved the feel of the bike (probably because its lighter and it does not feel overly aggressive (I also tested the vado and como but I felt like those were a little too much power. Looking to have a 50 mile plus radius on a battery. Thank you!

I’m considering purchasing this bike used but in excellent condition. Does the 45 lb weight include the battery pack? Meaning it would weigh less without it. Wondering if it is light enough to transport on a Thule trunk mounted bike rack.

Hi Rich! Trek and Bosch products are both super reliable with excellent support, from what I’ve seen and heard. It’s one of the few ebike products I’d consider buying used, since they are easier to repair if needed… including battery replacements. To answer your questions about weight, I covered the size Medium and weighed it at 45.6lbs with the battery included. The pack itself is 6.4lbs, so you’d be able to subtract that much for lifting and transporting on a bike rack. Ideally, you’d keep the battery cool and dry, avoid extreme cold and heat, and maintain at 50% when not in use or between 20% and 80% at all times… though I’d probably fill to 100% and just avoid going all the way to zero. This will help it stay balanced and get more full cycles over its lifespan. The pack it uses is the Bosch Powerpack 400 which can easily be replaced with a Powerpack 500 someday! These are the lightest, most durable, easiest to manage batteries from Bosch and some of my favorites industry wide. If the bike is in good shape, it sounds like a winning combination to me, and I hope that you enjoy it! Happy New Year.

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• Rider Notes

2019 Trek Verve 2 Women's

A 700c aluminum frame women’s comfort bike with modest components and rim brakes. Compare the full range

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A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

Verve 2 Women's

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Last updated September 16 Not listed for 1,686 days